Rutland eyes regionalized DPW with Hubbardston

Tuesday

Feb 5, 2013 at 4:00 PMFeb 5, 2013 at 10:05 PM

The Board of Selectmen agreed Monday night to explore the possibility of regionalizing Rutland's Department of Public Works with the town of Hubbardston, which would be the first regional public works department in the state.

Mr. Clark said Hubbardston Highway Superintendent Lyn Gauthier is expected to retire and town officials met to begin exploring whether a regional DPW would be feasible and economical for the two towns.

Mr. Bullock said the likely first step would be for the two towns to share a director.“Prudently, that's the first step,” he said. “We're looking for some help from the Central Mass. Regional Planning Commission to flesh it out.”

Rutland and Hubbardston already share a regional emergency services dispatch center with the towns of Oakham and Barre, which has produced both savings and improved service for member towns.

“The board is willing to explore the possibility,” Mr. Clark said. “They just want to be sure it will work and will save the town money.”